(WALTHAM, MA) 2017 marks the 30th year for the Gore Place Sheepshearing Festival. Held in Waltham, MA, just 9 miles from Boston, this is one of the great New England festivals attended by thousands of visitors every year (10,000 attended last year’s festival). Those attending can not only watch demonstrations of sheep shearing and herding dogs, but they can shop in one of the region’s biggest and best craft fairs (100 crafters are expected to display their wares). Along with fiber products such as locally produced and hand dyed wool, visitors can peruse a wide variety of craft goods including jewelry, wooden toys, clothing, stained-glass, and much, much more. All craft goods are made in this country by hand. The festival will be held Saturday, April 29 from 10am to 5pm (RAIN OR SHINE).

“The fact that our Sheepshearing Festival is now in its 30th year shows how much interest there is in this great event” says Festival co-organizer Thom Roach. “For many, attending Sheepshearing is a long-held, multi-generational tradition.”

One of the mainstays of the festival is shearer Kevin Ford, one of the last professional shearers still working exclusively with hand-shears as opposed to electric clippers. When Kevin finishes shearing and lays out the intact fleece like a blanket, he always gets a big round of applause. “Everyone loves to see someone with decades of experience do something exceptionally well.” says Roach.

There are dozens of such artisans to see at the Festival: crafters, musicians, historic re-enactors, puppeteers and dancers. It’s a full day of attractions for all ages.

Admission for the festival is just $20 for adults with children age 12 and under and Gore Place members admitted free. There is an additional charge for wagon rides and mansion tours. Most other activities are free of charge. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult. No pets or other animals are allowed. On site and satellite parking is free.

Gore Place is located at 52 Gore Street, off Route 20 (Main Street) near the Waltham/Watertown line. For details and festival updates, visit goreplace.org. For press information, photographs, or interviews, please contact Director of Interpretation and Programs, Thom Roach at (781) 894-2798 ext. 12 or email events@goreplace.org.